James had team-highs with 24 points, 12 rebounds and 11 assists in just three quarters of work. He headed to the bench for good in the closing minute of the third as the Lakers pushed their lead to 30. Ball finished with 16 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists, hitting the mark on his 10th rebound with seven minutes left in the fourth. He exited shortly after.

"We just tried to do a little bit of everything to help our team win," James said on the floor afterwards. "Try to put the ball in the hole, rebound so we can start the break and get our guys involved.

"That's what most important to both of us, getting our guys involved. It's a great feeling when you're able to make a pass to a teammate and see them make a shot."

James' triple-double was his second of the season and the 75th of his career. Ball notched his first triple-double of the season and third of his career.

"They're both such brilliant playmakers that when they're aggressive and they can get in the lane, it puts a lot of pressure on another team's defense," said Lakers coach Luke Walton.

The Lakers put the game away in the third, expanding a seven-point halftime lead into a 30-point advantage. They opened the quarter on a 21-6 run and outscored the Hornets 40-17 in the frame to take a 97-67 lead into the fourth.

Los Angeles has now won three of its last four and 10 of 14 to improve to 18-11 on the season. James has won 27 of his last 28 meetings with the Hornets.

March 6, 2019: LeBron James reacts after scoring a basket and passing Michael Jordan on the NBA's career scoring during the Lakers' game against the Nuggets at Staples Center. Gary A. Vasquez, USA TODAY Sports

Dec. 25, 2018: The Lakers' marquee Christmas Day matchup against the Warriors was spoiled when LeBron James suffered a strained groin. James exited early in the third quarter, but Los Angeles overcame his absence for a 127-101 win. Tony Avelar, AP

Nov. 18: LeBron James directs the offense during the first half against the Heat in Miami. James returned to one of his former homes and dropped a season-high 51 points. Steve Mitchell, USA TODAY Sports

Nov. 18: With time winding down, James puts up a 3 over Heat forward Derrick Jones Jr. in the closing seconds to eclipse the 50-point mark for the 13th time in his career. Steve Mitchell, USA TODAY Sports

Oct. 24, 2018: It took four tries, but after three straight losses to start the season, LeBron James and the Lakers celebrated their first win against the Suns in Phoenix. Mark J. Rebilas, USA TODAY Sports